Baked Chow Mein

Baked Chow Mein Recipe: A Delicious American Dish

Region / culture: USA | Preparation time: 20 minutes | Cooking time: 2 hours | Servings: 6

Introduction

Baked Chow Mein is a delightful twist on the traditional chow mein dish, incorporating a baked method that infuses the ingredients with rich flavors and textures. This recipe is perfect for those who love the classic taste of chow mein but are looking for a comforting, oven-baked version. With a combination of ground beef, vegetables, and savory sauces, this dish is a hearty and satisfying meal that's sure to please any crowd.

History

The concept of chow mein originates from Chinese cuisine, traditionally consisting of stir-fried noodles with vegetables and sometimes meat or seafood. The adaptation of chow mein into a baked version is a testament to the dish's versatility and the fusion of culinary cultures. This baked chow mein recipe reflects a blend of Eastern flavors with Western cooking techniques, creating a unique and delicious dish that has gained popularity in various parts of the world.

Ingredients

1 lb (454 g) ground beef
1 onion, chopped
1 to 2 cups celery, chopped
0.5 cup uncooked instant rice
1 can chicken with rice soup
1 can cream of mushroom soup
0.25 to 1 tbsp soy sauce
0.5 to 1 can chow mein noodles
2 tbsp worcestershire sauce

How to prepare

In a skillet, brown the ground beef with onion and celery.
Add rice, soups, water, soy sauce, and Worcestershire sauce to the skillet.
Stir the mixture well.
Transfer the mixture into a greased baking dish.
Sprinkle chow mien noodles on top of the mixture.
Bake the dish at 350°F (177°C) for 1.5 – 2 hours.

Variations

For a vegetarian version, substitute ground beef with a plant-based meat alternative or extra vegetables.
Add different vegetables such as bell peppers or carrots for more color and nutrition.
Use brown rice instead of white rice for added fiber.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

To ensure your Baked Chow Mein turns out perfectly, consider the following tips:

- Brown the ground beef thoroughly to develop a deep flavor.

- Chop the onion and celery into uniform pieces for even cooking.

- Use instant rice to save time, as it cooks quickly in the oven.

- Adjust the amount of soy sauce and Worcestershire sauce to suit your taste preferences.

- For a crispy topping, add the chow mein noodles in the last 30 minutes of baking.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Baked Chow Mein hot, directly from the oven. It pairs well with a side of steamed vegetables or a fresh salad to add a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the dish.

Cooking Techniques

Baking the chow mein allows the flavors to meld together beautifully, creating a rich and savory dish. Browning the meat and vegetables before baking enhances the depth of flavor.

Ingredient Substitutions

Ground turkey or chicken can be used in place of ground beef for a lighter version.

- Gluten-free chow mein noodles and soy sauce can be used to make this dish gluten-free.

- A homemade cream soup can substitute for the canned cream of mushroom soup for a less processed option.

Make Ahead Tips

Prepare the meat and vegetable mixture ahead of time and refrigerate. When ready to bake, add the mixture to the baking dish, top with chow mein noodles, and bake as directed.

Presentation Ideas

Serve the Baked Chow Mein in a colorful dish to enhance its visual appeal. Garnish with sliced green onions or sesame seeds for an extra touch of elegance.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair this dish with a light, crisp white wine such as Sauvignon Blanc or a refreshing lager to complement the savory flavors of the chow mein.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until thoroughly warmed.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

A single serving of Baked Chow Mein contains approximately 350-400 calories, making it a hearty meal option. The calories are derived from a balanced mix of proteins, fats, and carbohydrates.

Carbohydrates

This Baked Chow Mein recipe contains carbohydrates primarily from the rice and chow mein noodles. A serving of this dish provides approximately 45-55 grams of carbohydrates, which includes sugars from the vegetables and trace amounts from the sauces.

Fats

The fats in this recipe come mainly from the ground beef and the cream of mushroom soup. A serving contains about 15-20 grams of fat, with a mix of saturated and unsaturated fats. Using lean ground beef can help reduce the total fat content.

Proteins

Protein is an essential component of this dish, with the ground beef serving as the primary source. Each serving offers approximately 20-25 grams of protein, making it a satisfying and muscle-building meal option.

Vitamins and minerals

This Baked Chow Mein is a good source of various vitamins and minerals, including Vitamin A from the celery, Vitamin C from the onion, and iron and zinc from the ground beef. The dish also provides calcium and potassium in smaller amounts.

Alergens

Common allergens in this recipe include soy (from soy sauce), wheat (from chow mein noodles), and dairy (from the cream of mushroom soup). Individuals with allergies to these ingredients should exercise caution or seek substitutions.

Summary

Overall, Baked Chow Mein is a balanced meal offering a good mix of macronutrients, vitamins, and minerals. It's a comforting dish that can be adjusted to meet various dietary needs and preferences.

Summary

Baked Chow Mein is a comforting and versatile dish that combines the classic flavors of chow mein with the ease and heartiness of a baked casserole. With its rich flavors, nutritional benefits, and adaptability to various dietary needs, it's a perfect meal for any occasion.

How did I get this recipe?

The memory of discovering this recipe is still vivid in my mind. It was a warm summer day, and I was visiting my dear friend Margaret in her cozy kitchen. Margaret had always been a wonderful cook, and I loved spending time with her, chatting and learning new recipes.

On that particular day, Margaret had just returned from a trip to Asia, and she was eager to share a new dish she had learned during her travels. She called it Baked Chow Mein, a delicious combination of noodles, vegetables, and savory sauce. I was intrigued by the idea of baking chow mein, as I had only ever had it stir-fried before.

Margaret patiently guided me through the process, showing me how to cook the noodles until they were al dente, how to prepare the vegetables, and how to make the flavorful sauce. As the dish baked in the oven, filling the kitchen with mouthwatering aromas, Margaret shared stories of her time in Asia and the wonderful people she had met along the way.

When the Baked Chow Mein was finally ready, we sat down to enjoy it together. The noodles were perfectly crispy on top, while the vegetables underneath were tender and flavorful. The sauce tied everything together, adding a rich and savory finish to the dish. I was hooked from the first bite, and I knew that this recipe would become a staple in my own kitchen.

I asked Margaret for the recipe, and she happily shared it with me, along with a few tips and tricks she had picked up from her travels. Over the years, I have made Baked Chow Mein countless times, each batch a little different from the last as I added my own twist to the recipe.

As I sit in my own kitchen now, preparing a fresh batch of Baked Chow Mein, I can't help but think back to that day with Margaret. She was not just teaching me a new recipe, but sharing a piece of her own journey and the memories she had collected along the way. Cooking has always been a way for me to connect with others, to share stories and create lasting memories.

I am grateful for the friends and family who have shared their recipes with me over the years, each one a treasure that I hold dear. And as I take a bite of the Baked Chow Mein, savoring the familiar flavors and textures, I am reminded once again of the power of food to bring us together, to nourish both body and soul.

So thank you, Margaret, for introducing me to this delicious dish and for inspiring me to continue exploring the world of cooking. Your recipe will always hold a special place in my heart, a reminder of the joy and connection that can be found in a simple meal shared with loved ones.